Ann Animates ‘The Not So Secret History of AI’ for Global Conference

A South Eastern Regional College Lecturer, Ann Harrison and her husband John Clerkin, have been selected to create an animation to give the history of artificial intelligence (AI). Leading Artificial Intelligence conference AI Con partnered with Future Screens NI and Northern Ireland Screen to capture the revolution and development of AI on screen. The film will be showcased to a global audience at AI Con on Thursday 3 and Friday 4 December.

The collaborative duo, who’s Celtic Dragon Studios create animations, illustrations and films were one of four successful applicants who secured the work to create a three-minute animation or film conveying the development and potential of AI and how this is changing business and society. They will present ‘(The not so Secret) History of AI’ which is an engaging animation built upon accessible and everyday examples of the application and origin of AI.

Ann said, “We are delighted to have secured this work. It is great for us but equally exciting, it means I get to share the whole process of the work with the students back in class. As well as learning about animation, they get to hear first-hand how to plan and approach for a pitch to secure work in the industry. Essentially, it is real live case study as they get to see the process from start to finish.

Ann added, “In addition, we were able to involve a performing arts student in the voice over, so they have evidence of industry experience to add to their CV or personal statements as they progress.”

Dakota Ginesi, (19) originally from Lurgan who moved to Bangor for the course, is a second year student on the HND in Performing Arts at SERC’s Bangor campus, said, “I am delighted to be involved in this animation. It is a fantastic opportunity to gain industry experience before I even complete my course which will help with progression to further studies or work.”

Co-founder of AI Con, Tom Gray said, “The creative industries have been dealt a major blow as a result of the pandemic and the implications have been severe on the arts sector. AI Con recognises the role played by our local creative industries in getting the message out and helping to showcase the tech world. Therefore, when presented with the chance to offer funding and work hand-in-hand with our creative colleagues, we jumped at it and are delighted to be able to support local talented individuals.

“I would like to congratulate Boom Clap Play, Dr Andrew Bolster, Celtic Dragon Studios and HUMAIN on their successful applications. Each proposal conveyed an engaging perspective on AI which will further educate and inform our audience. I look forward to seeing their finished products going live at this year’s AI Con.”

"AI Con will look at advances in Artificial Intelligence and what it means for companies, government and the world in which we live, including the transformation AI is making to public sector services including health care.”

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